New Orleans Offshore Injury Lawyer
Many people work on ships that navigate our nation’s waterways. Ships are dangerous environments that can easily cause injury due to someone’s carelessness or reckless behavior. Like other types of workers in the United States, those who work in the maritime industry have the right to safe working conditions. When they suffer personal injuries on the job, they may file claims against their maritime employer. However, there are various laws that may apply, so it’s best to obtain professional legal assistance.
A New Orleans offshore injury lawyer from Palazzo Law Firm can help you understand the laws that apply and advise you on how to get compensation for your damages. Contact us today to get started.
What Causes Offshore Accidents?
Offshore accidents can be caused by the following:
- Bad weather conditions. Bad weather and lack of visibility can cause ships to capsize or collide. Unfortunately, weather forecasts cannot always predict storms.
- Hazardous chemicals. Maritime employees may be exposed to many hazardous conditions and chemicals. When they come into contact with toxic substances, they can get sick, suffer serious injuries, or even die.
- Unseaworthy vessels. For vessels to perform optimally, they must be seaworthy, or safe and fit enough for a sea voyage. Unfortunately, many vessels are not properly maintained and become faulty, leading to an accident.
- Maritime workers often work long shifts, which can cause fatigue and stress. This can make them lose concentration on the job and cause severe accidents for themselves and others.
What Laws Apply?
As a maritime employee, some laws protect your rights when you suffer a work-related injury. These laws guarantee compensation for your job injury. These laws include:
- Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act. The Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act is a federal law that guarantees financial support for maritime workers who aren’t seamen. This money is available to maritime workers regardless of fault.
- The Jones Act. The Jones Act provides certain rights and protections for seamen as well as many crewmembers aboard offshore vessels. They have the right to file negligence claims and lawsuits against their offshore employers.
- General Maritime Law. General Maritime Law provides damages for crewmembers who suffer injuries due to a vessel’s unseaworthiness. They can receive compensation for maintenance and cure and other living expenses.
- Death on the High Seas Act. This act regulates wrongful death claims in the maritime industry. It guarantees compensation to the family members of maritime workers who have died due to negligence while on a vessel in international waters.
Contact Palazzo Law Firm Today
Working on a ship can be fun and the pay is good, but it comes with many dangers. Many people are seriously injured or killed. Make sure you get specialized legal help from an experienced maritime accident lawyer. If you or a loved one has been affected, contact the team at Palazzo Law Firm. Schedule a consultation with a New Orleans offshore injury lawyer by filling out the online form or calling 504-433-1442.
